After failed Security Council votes, UN brings 35-year western sahara peacekeeping mission to close, raising stability concerns
Mission ends after Security Council votes
The United Nations ended its peacekeeping mission in Western Sahara after the force’s mandate came to an abrupt close. The UN Secretary General announced the decision on Sunday.
On Friday, Russia vetoed a US draft resolution that backed Morocco’s sovereignty demand and proposed ending the mission the following year. A Russian resolution seeking an extension was then voted down.
Morocco and Polisario react
Morocco, which claims the territory, welcomed the decision. Its royal palace described the non-renewal as an “instrument to internationalise the dispute.” The Algeria-backed Polisario Front expressed concern and called the decision “unacceptable.” The group has pursued an independent state in Western Sahara since Spain, the colonial power, left the region in 1976.
Territory remains disputed
Morocco administers nearly all of Western Sahara. A narrow area called the free zone lies east of a sand wall built by Morocco. The territory is rich in minerals and fisheries, and the end of the mission has raised concerns about stability.
Key points
- The UN ended its 35-year peacekeeping mission in Western Sahara.
- Morocco welcomed the decision; the Algeria-backed Polisario Front opposed it.
- Russia vetoed a US draft resolution, and a Russian extension proposal was voted down.
- A smaller UN team will oversee asset returns and equipment disposal.